You will find something for everybody in Alicante, from international labels to local crafts, in designer shops, department stores and even outdoors. The traditional shopping part of the town is located around the Rambla de Méndez Núñez, but the area of Maisonnave and its surrounding streets, although newer, is an equally lively shopping area. There is also a multipurpose market that takes place along the Paseo del Doctor Gadea in winter and the Explanada in summer, where you can buy anything from casual clothes to pottery, jewellery and decorative items.
If you have a discerning palate, we recommend a walk around the Central Market. Located on the Avenida de Alfonso el Sabio in the heart of the city, its sheer range will surprise you. Behind the market is a flower seller's square, with cafés where you can take a break and at the same time enjoy the colourful sights.
Locally produced products, of a quality that is internationally recognised, are the most popular purchases. Of the foods, we recommend the fish and vegetable preserves, olives stuffed with anchovies, chocolates, dates, sugared almonds (peladillas) and nougats (turrones). And of the drinks, the wines, anisettes and fruit liqueurs.
Leather items include clothing for men and women, and the accessories for which Alicante is justly famous, its shoes, bags, wallets, belts, etc.
Alicante is also famous for its rugs, toys and dolls, as well as for its 100% handcrafted pottery and basketwork items.
And don't forget to check the Alicante origins of your product. This will be your best guarantee, since you will always find imitations of what is genuinely good.
